by Joshua Peacock

Created on: June 18, 2009

Everybody has wondered if they should write a novel, but, unfortunately, most never learn how. This in turn keeps them at a mental block, for they are unsure of how to proceed, and therefore do nothing at all for fear of failure and/or humiliation. Fortunately, learning the basic principles of how to craft a novel isn't all that hard. You just need some patience, practice and a little know-how to do it. (Note: this doesn't constitute to the actual quality to the writing - just the Structure)

As pretty everyone already knows, a story starts with an idea. Sometimes its just a character and a vague plot point; sometimes its a huge vision, almost finished within one's mind the moment it comes. Regardless of your inspiration, this isn't all you need to just start writing. Once you have the initial idea, you need to start roughing out the rest of the story. Yes, the entire story. Don't worry, some of the most intricate details won't be smoothed out until you start writing, and another portion until your successive drafts. Try and map an outline chapter by chapter, or scene by scene. Make little details on notes as they come to you, so that you remember to integrate them as you actually write.

While you are building your story you need a central plot; a motive and reason for your story. For example, in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the plot is for Frodo to travel across the perilous Middle Earth to Mount Doom to destroy the One Ring of Power. The plot is depper than that, but you get the point. What is your character's motivation. What is his or her motivation or mission is? Add a good twist and deepen your plot.

Before actually starting on your novel, you need to read some books and articles on writing. Pay attention to your favorite authors and how they write (note: make sure your favorite authors are respectible writers, good at their trade first). Look at their techniques; see how they describe certain situations, feelings or emotions. Research is vital to your learning this trade and developing it further. That, and practice. You can write well too, just stick to it!

The final step is writing the story. Sit down at your computer ( if you choose to use this medium) and type. There is nothing that will help you here but discipline. Stick to it and keep doing it regularly - write every day. Its hard, but you have to develop the integrity to write every day, even without inspiration. Because, like everyone, that inspiration will disapear from time to time in those rough spots. Again, at this point, just persevere. You can edit every thing else later.

Learn more about this author, Joshua Peacock.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.